Drinks

Not all hot chocolate is created equal. Here is a guide to the best cocoa in town; one that achieves a delicate balance of sweet and rich chocolate, a creamy yet refreshing milk base and a subtle hint of hearty spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

One of the best parts of the fall and winter is being able to enjoy a warm beverage when it's chilly outside. However, most of us are not seasoned chefs or baristas. With that in mind, here are some recipes for hot drinks that you can't mess up.

These recipes are quick and painless – suitable for busy winter break schedules and perfect for the holidays with the family. So gather 'round and get brewing because these coffee drinks are simply too delicious to resist!

After a long day of classes, tests, and walking home in the soon-to-be blazing heat, nothing quenches your thirst for hydration and flavor better than a simple smoothie. Though vendors may make them out to be complicated mixtures requiring exotic fruits and exact measurements, you can make a satisfying smoothie with fresh, canned or frozen fruits you can easily find at home. Save yourself the buyer's remorse with one of these quick and easy smoothie recipes, and once you get the hang of it, feel free to get creative!

School is almost over, but many Blazers still have exams to sit through before welcoming the heat and sunshine. Days of lounging by the pool and freedom from homework and tests are within reach. Fortunately, study breaks are the perfect opportunity to whip up a virgin Pina Colada and daydream about sandy beaches. Composed of only four ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and delicious to drink.

Many feel the depressing crunch of winter blues when cold weather doesn't give way to snow. But the icy conditions and chill can be subdued with the right food. Eggnog, spiced cider and peppermint hot chocolate are all simple drinks that will warm taste buds and send a hopeful message to the rest of the body that winter break will eventually arrive.

Originally a popular after-school refreshment among Taiwanese children, this Frappuccino of the eastern world is making its way into cities and towns across the nation. Chewy bubbles swirl in a creamy tea blend, making bubble tea truly unique. Most malls only offer cheap powdered imitations, so try this delicious homemade recipe to delight your friends with an Oriental favorite.